Argentotennantite-(Zn) is a rare silver-rich member of the tetrahedrite group, typically occurring in hydrothermal metallic vein deposits. It is best identified by its metallic luster and dark tetrahedral crystal habit, though it is often chemically indistinguishable from related sulfosalts without advanced testing.

Hardness

3-4

Mohs

Luster

Metallic

Streak

Black

Transparency

Opaque

mineralrareTetrahedrite Group family

Argentotennantite-(Zn)

Hardness: 3-4
Luster: Metallic
Streak: Black
Transparency: Opaque

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Is this argentotennantite-(zn)?

5-step field check

Run through these checks against the specimen in your hand. The more boxes tick, the more confident the ID.

1
Test the hardness
Try to scratch argentotennantite-(zn) with a known reference. Argentotennantite-(Zn) sits at Mohs 3-4 — softer than the next harder reference, harder than the previous one.
2
Check the streak
Drag the specimen across an unglazed porcelain plate. Argentotennantite-(Zn) leaves a black streak.
3
Read the luster
Hold the specimen under a strong light. Argentotennantite-(Zn) typically shows a metallic luster.
4
Match the color range
Compare against the expected color range: steel-gray, iron-black.
5
Look at form & habit
Crystal system: cubic. Typical habit: tetrahedral crystals, massive, granular.

Often confused with

Argentotennantite-(Zn) vs. its common look-alikes — and how to tell them apart in the field.

Often found alongside argentotennantite-(zn)

Minerals reported to co-occur with argentotennantite-(zn). Spotting these in float or country rock is a strong cue you are in the right ground.

All properties

Chemical formula: Ag₆(Cu₄Zn₂)As₄S₁₃
Mohs hardness: 3-4
Density: 5.6-5.8 g/cm³
Colors: Steel-gray Iron-black
Streak: Black
Luster: Metallic
Transparency: Opaque
Crystal system: Cubic
Crystal habit: Tetrahedral Crystals, Massive, Granular
Cleavage: None
Rarity: Rare
Uses: Collector
Host rock: Hydrothermal Sulfide Veins
Typical price: $50-500 depending on specimen quality and size

Where rockhounds find argentotennantite-(zn)

Classic worldwide localities

Príbram, Czech Republic
Kutná Hora, Czech Republic
Sala, Sweden
Rudabánya, Hungary

Field-hunting tip

Look in hydrothermal sulfide veins country — that is the host setting where argentotennantite-(zn) typically forms. If you start seeing galena, sphalerite, pyrite in float, you are in the right ground. Field specimens usually show a tetrahedral crystals, massive, granular habit, so train your eye for that shape before scanning the outcrop.

Common questions

How do you identify argentotennantite-(zn)?+

Mohs hardness is 3-4. It typically shows a metallic luster. The streak is black. Common colors include steel-gray, iron-black.

Where is argentotennantite-(zn) found?+

Notable localities include Príbram, Czech Republic; Kutná Hora, Czech Republic; Sala, Sweden; Rudabánya, Hungary.

How much is argentotennantite-(zn) worth?+

Typical asking prices fall in the range of $50-500 depending on specimen quality and size. Quality, size, and provenance can move individual specimens well outside that range.

Is argentotennantite-(zn) safe to handle?+

It contains toxic constituents. Contains arsenic and silver; handle with care and wash hands after handling. Do not inhale dust or allow to come into contact with skin in powdered form. Handle with care, avoid grinding or breathing dust, and store separately.

What rocks look like argentotennantite-(zn)?+

Argentotennantite-(Zn) is most often confused with Tetrahedrite. A quick hardness test and a streak check separate the look-alikes faster than color alone.

What minerals are found with argentotennantite-(zn)?+

Argentotennantite-(Zn) commonly co-occurs with Galena, Sphalerite, Pyrite, Chalcopyrite, Quartz. Spotting any of these in float or country rock is a useful trip signal.

What kind of rock does argentotennantite-(zn) form in?+

Argentotennantite-(Zn) typically forms in hydrothermal sulfide veins. Working float back to the host body is the standard way to chase a fresh occurrence.

What is argentotennantite-(zn) used for?+

Argentotennantite-(Zn) is used in collector.

Find argentotennantite-(zn) on the map

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